Elf brings Christmas cheer to downtown Detroit with delightful show for all ages

There are those special shows that really get you into the holiday spirit. They help you remember what Christmas is all about despite the chaos that can come along this time of year such as long lines at the mall with people desperate for a deal. “Elf”, based on the 2003 film, is one of those shows.

The Broadway in Detroit production of “Elf” at the Detroit Opera House is the story of Buddy, a young orphan who crawls into Santa’s sack of gifts and ends up back at the North Pole with him. His size and inability to make gifts with the same skill set as his elf brethren make it apparent that he is actually human. This forces Santa to tell Buddy that his human family is actually in New York City.

Buddy seeks out his birth father to find out his true identity and, in the meantime, helps New York City remember the true meaning of Christmas. Being human isn’t easy and being a part of a family and falling in love comes with some challenges.

The title character is played by the infectiously adorable Matt Kopec.

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Kopec’s energetic, agile and light-hearted performance is charming for both adults and children who see the show. And his sweet tenor is perfect for songs like “World’s Greatest Dad.”

The music of “Elf” is one of the most delightful elements of the show. There are no fancy riffs or complicated notes, just fun, catchy tunes that warm your heart and that anyone can sing along to without feeling like they have to sound like Mariah Carey – think about the end of her “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” You know how you kind of stop singing at the end when she starts belting all of those ridiculously high notes? Those don’t exist in “Elf.”

Speaking of wonderful voices, Kate Hennies is the vocal star of this show. Her alto soprano is versatile and emotional. She is able to tune into her character’s, Jovie, angst about Christmas without depressing the children in the audience and still getting the point across.

The cast also includes Tyler Altomari as Michael, Jane Bruce as Emily, Jacqueline Grabois as Deb, Gordon Gray as Santa – a really awesome Saint Nick – Kevin Rockower as Mr. Greenway and Matthew Alan Smith as Walter along with a host of ensemble cast members.

The costumes and set design are impeccable from Santa’s workshop to the ice rink at Rockefeller Center. Everything is colorful and bright and gets you in the holiday spirit with all of the wonderful eye candy that lights up the stage.

“Elf” is a perfect way to celebrate this time of year with the entire family – you’ll laugh together, you might even cry a little, but more than anything, you’ll create another great Christmas memory by enjoying this show together.

“Elf” is playing now through December 15. Showtimes are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with a Saturday matinee at 2 p.m. Sunday’s shows include a matinee at 1 p.m. and an evening performance at 6:30 p.m at 1526 Broadway in Detroit. Tickets are $24 to $72. Call 313-871-1132 or visit BroadwayinDetroit.com.

Samantha White is a freelance writer. Contact her at Sammie427@gmail.com